Journal of pediatric psychology
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The cold pressor task (CPT) is an experimental method of inducing pain. Ethical concerns have been raised regarding the nontherapeutic induction of pain in children. The objectives of this study were to describe the ethical challenges and acceptability of the CPT from the perspective of researchers, children and parents. ⋯ The CPT is judged by researchers, children, and parents to be an acceptable research method. The CPT can be used ethically in pediatric research with appropriate study safeguards.